Smelting: meaning, definitions and examples
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smelting
[ ˈsmɛltɪŋ ]
metallurgy process
Smelting is a process of extracting metal from its ore by using heat and a chemical reducing agent. This process typically involves heating the ore in a furnace, at a temperature high enough to melt the metal, and often incorporates the use of a flux to help purify the metal. Smelting is a crucial step in the production of metals, such as iron, copper, and lead, and has been integral to the development of civilizations throughout history.
Synonyms
extraction, metallurgy, refining
Examples of usage
- The smelting of iron has been practiced for thousands of years.
- Modern smelting techniques allow for the recovery of metals from complex ores.
- Environmental regulations impact the efficiency of smelting operations.
- The smelting process is essential for producing high-quality steel.
Translations
Translations of the word "smelting" in other languages:
🇵🇹 fundição
🇮🇳 धातु गलाना
🇩🇪 Schmelzen
🇮🇩 peleburan
🇺🇦 плавлення
🇵🇱 topnienie
🇯🇵 溶解
🇫🇷 fusion
🇪🇸 fusión
🇹🇷 ergitme
🇰🇷 용해
🇸🇦 صهر
🇨🇿 tavení
🇸🇰 tavenie
🇨🇳 冶炼
🇸🇮 taljenje
🇮🇸 bræðslu
🇰🇿 балқыту
🇬🇪 დასხმა
🇦🇿 əritmə
🇲🇽 fusión
Etymology
The word 'smelting' originates from the Old English word 'smiðian', which means 'to smite or to strike'. This refers to the act of heating and shaping metal through hammering or similar processes. The term evolved over time to specifically denote the process of melting and extracting metals from their ores. The practice of smelting dates back to ancient civilizations, with evidence of copper smelting found in ancient Egypt and the Indus Valley. As metallurgy advanced, so did smelting techniques, incorporating various chemical processes to enhance metal purity and yield. The Industrial Revolution saw significant improvements in smelting technology, leading to the mass production of metals that fueled technological and industrial growth.